The ultimate cruiser comparison: triumph bonneville speedmaster vs harley-davidson battle royale
What To Know
- The Speedmaster features a more traditional Harley-Davidson design with a large V-twin engine, a wide handlebar, and a low-slung seat.
- The Bonneville Speedmaster features a tubular steel frame and a suspension system that provides a comfortable and balanced ride.
- The Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster offers a wider range of modern features, including ABS, traction control, a digital instrument cluster, a USB charging port, a heated seat, and a cruise control system.
Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster and Harley-Davidson are two iconic motorcycle brands that have been producing classic cruisers for decades. Both bikes offer a unique blend of style, performance, and comfort, making them popular choices for riders looking for a timeless ride. However, there are subtle differences between the two bikes that may influence your decision.
Design and Style
Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster
The Bonneville Speedmaster exudes a classic British style with its sleek lines and timeless design. The bike features a low-slung silhouette, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, and a comfortable upright riding position. The round headlight, chrome accents, and blacked-out engine give it a retro-inspired look.
Harley-Davidson
Harley-Davidson motorcycles are known for their bold and muscular appearance. The Speedmaster features a more traditional Harley-Davidson design with a large V-twin engine, a wide handlebar, and a low-slung seat. The bike’s blacked-out finish, chrome accents, and signature Harley-Davidson branding give it a distinctive and iconic look.
Engine and Performance
Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster
The Bonneville Speedmaster is powered by a 1200cc parallel-twin engine that produces 77 horsepower and 78 lb-ft of torque. The engine delivers smooth and responsive power throughout the rev range, making it suitable for both cruising and spirited riding. The bike’s six-speed transmission provides smooth and precise gear changes.
Harley-Davidson
The Speedmaster is powered by a 1200cc Evolution V-twin engine that produces 74 horsepower and 86 lb-ft of torque. The V-twin engine provides a distinctive rumble and strong low-end torque, making it ideal for cruising at highway speeds. The bike’s five-speed transmission offers a solid and reliable shifting experience.
Handling and Suspension
Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster
The Bonneville Speedmaster features a tubular steel frame and a suspension system that provides a comfortable and balanced ride. The bike’s front forks offer 120mm of travel, while the rear shocks provide 110mm of travel. The bike’s low center of gravity and responsive handling make it easy to maneuver in urban environments and on winding roads.
Harley-Davidson
The Speedmaster is built on a rigid frame with a suspension system that prioritizes stability and comfort. The bike’s front forks offer 110mm of travel, while the rear shocks provide 100mm of travel. The bike’s longer wheelbase and more relaxed geometry provide a smooth and planted ride, making it ideal for long-distance cruising.
Features and Technology
Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster
The Bonneville Speedmaster comes equipped with a range of modern features, including ABS, traction control, and a digital instrument cluster. The bike also features a USB charging port, a heated seat, and a cruise control system.
Harley-Davidson
The Speedmaster offers a more traditional riding experience with limited electronic features. The bike comes equipped with ABS, but lacks traction control and other modern amenities. However, it does feature a digital speedometer and a fuel gauge.
Price and Availability
Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster
The Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster has a starting price of around $12,500. It is available in a range of colors and finishes.
Harley-Davidson
The Harley-Davidson Speedmaster has a starting price of around $13,500. It is available in a limited range of colors and finishes.
Which Bike is Right for You?
The Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster and the Harley-Davidson Speedmaster are both excellent choices for riders looking for a classic cruiser. The Bonneville Speedmaster offers a more refined and modern riding experience, while the Harley-Davidson provides a more traditional and iconic ride. Ultimately, the best bike for you depends on your personal preferences and riding style.
If you prefer:
- A sleek and timeless design
- A smooth and responsive engine
- Modern features and technology
Choose the Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster.
If you prefer:
- A bold and muscular appearance
- A strong low-end torque
- A traditional and iconic ride
Choose the Harley-Davidson Speedmaster.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Which bike has a higher horsepower?
A: The Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster has a slightly higher horsepower of 77 horsepower compared to the Harley-Davidson Speedmaster’s 74 horsepower.
Q: Which bike offers more modern features?
A: The Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster offers a wider range of modern features, including ABS, traction control, a digital instrument cluster, a USB charging port, a heated seat, and a cruise control system.
Q: Which bike is more affordable?
A: The Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster has a slightly lower starting price of around $12,500 compared to the Harley-Davidson Speedmaster’s starting price of around $13,500.
Q: Which bike has a longer wheelbase?
A: The Harley-Davidson Speedmaster has a longer wheelbase of 63.6 inches compared to the Triumph Bonneville Speedmaster‘s wheelbase of 61.2 inches.
Q: Which bike is better for long-distance cruising?
A: The Harley-Davidson Speedmaster may be better suited for long-distance cruising due to its longer wheelbase, more relaxed geometry, and lower seat height.
